Write a commentResidents of Springside at Seneca Hill learned recently about the role of the Village of Mexico in the Underground Railroad from an illustrated lecture by James Hotchkiss, co-curator of the Underground Railroad Museum.
He spoke of the Starr Clark Tin Shop built in 1827 and the Chandler & Ames Bank built in 1855, both of which are now museums. The buildings have been restored and sit side by side on Main Street in Mexico. The tin shop now houses the Underground Railroad Museum as well as the tin smith’s tools and many locally made artifacts and is believed to be the oldest commercial building still in use in the region. The bank museum has been restored to its original condition. Both buildings are open for visitors by appointment only. Arrangements may be made by calling 315-963-7853 or emailing MayorJim1@msn.com.
Hotchkiss explained the significance of the pictures and artifacts he brought to the lecture. He also spoke of several abolitionist leaders who had a connection with Mexico. There is published evidence that Jerry Henry, the runaway slave who was imprisoned in Syracuse and then rescued by an abolitionist mob, spent a few weeks in Mexico until he was able to board a ship in Oswego harbor and travel to freedom in Kingston, Canada.
Asa Wing was a resident of Mexico who traveled widely to speak against slavery. He was the great, great grandfather of Mary Mack, a Springside resident who taught American history in the Mexico School District and was called by Hotchkiss his “best American history teacher.” When Asa Wing died at the age of 38, he was eulogized by Frederick Douglas, the famous abolitionist.
Springside at Seneca Hill is an independent living residential community for seniors 55 or older who want to free themselves of the responsibilities of maintaining a house. Fully accessible apartments, duplexes, and cottages are available, along with a variety of services including prepared restaurant-style meals, housekeeping, laundry, lawn care, snow removal, garages, and maintenance services, depending upon the options chosen. Most residents find it considerably less expensive and much less work and stress than maintaining a private house.
Information is available and tours of Springside may be arranged by calling 315-343-5658 to schedule an appointment.
